According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving takes thousands of lives every year in the United States. To help keep our communities safe, motorists are warned against driving while distracted. The state of New Mexico took it a step further by making it illegal to text and drive—and in Albuquerque, it is illegal to use a handheld device in any capacity when behind the wheel.
But how does distracted driving impair a motorist? Generally, there are three ways:
● Visually, when a motorist’s eyes are taken off the road;
● Cognitively, when a motorist’s mind is taken off driving; and
● Manually, when a motorist’s hand is taken off the wheel.
Texting and driving is often cited as one of the most alarming types of distracted driving, primarily because it falls into all the above categories. To text, a motorist will take their eyes off the road and mind off driving to look at their phone, then take at least one hand off the wheel to send a reply. This may seem harmless—after all, the average text only takes 5 seconds to send, per the NHTSA. But when driving at 55 miles per hour, it only takes 5 seconds to travel the length of a football field.
Don’t Risk It—Pay Attention to the Road
To do your part in making the road a safer place, make sure to refrain from all types of distractions. A few common examples of visual, cognitive, and manual driver distractions include:
● Eating
● Applying makeup
● Talking on the phone
● Drinking coffee, water, and other beverages
● Adjusting the radio/climate controls
● Fiddling with the infotainment system
Safe driving requires one’s full and undivided attention, no matter how skilled a motorist may be at multitasking. A serious accident can occur in the blink of an eye. When it comes to your safety and the safety of others, don’t risk it. It’s best to save your multitasking skills for when you arrive at your destination.
Were You Injured in a Distracted Driving Accident?
If you have been injured in a distracted driving accident in New Mexico, our personal injury lawyers will fight for your full and fair financial recovery. At McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA, P.A, we have seen how compensation obtained through a settlement or jury verdict can help our clients move forward after life-changing accidents. Our team wants to help you come out on top, too.
Contact McGinn Montoya Love Curry & Sievers PA, P.A. online today for a free consultation!
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